On April 23, 2025, BSF jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory while on operational duty in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector. He was detained by the Pakistan Rangers and held for 21 days. Following intense diplomatic efforts, regular flag meetings, and backchannel communications, Pakistan returned Shaw to Indian authorities at the Attari border near Amritsar on May 14, 2025.
In a reciprocal move, India released a Pakistani Ranger who had been in Indian custody for nearly two weeks after being apprehended near the international border in Rajasthan’s Sriganganagar district. The exchange was conducted peacefully and in accordance with established protocols, with both sides crediting ongoing communication and cooperation between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers for the smooth handover.
This exchange took place against the backdrop of severe India-Pakistan tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed dozens of lives and triggered India’s counterterror Operation Sindoor. The ensuing weeks saw intense military exchanges, including artillery and small arms fire along the border, and a diplomatic standoff that included the expulsion of diplomats, suspension of visas, and the closure of key border crossings.
However, in the days leading up to the exchange, both sides agreed to a ceasefire and initiated talks at the level of their Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs). These talks focused on immediate de-escalation, including the withdrawal of troops and equipment to pre-crisis positions and a commitment to halt all military actions and aerial violations along the border.
The exchange of personnel at the Attari-Wagah border was carried out in a calm and orderly manner. BSF jawan Shaw was received by Indian officials, underwent a medical examination, and will be debriefed and counselled before returning to active duty. His family, who had endured weeks of anxiety, expressed relief and gratitude to the authorities for securing his safe return.
Similarly, the Pakistani Ranger was handed back to his country’s authorities, marking a rare moment of cooperation amid otherwise fraught relations.
The exchange is being viewed as a positive step toward de-escalation and confidence-building between the two countries. While both sides remain committed to the ceasefire, officials have emphasized that any future violations or acts of aggression will be met with firm responses. The DGMOs are expected to continue talks on further measures, including the reduction of troop deployments and the prevention of accidental or inadvertent border crossings.
